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The ISR Systems and Architectures group performs analysis and experimentation to develop concepts for filling critical gaps in U.S. Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. This work includes evaluating mission needs by considering future operational scenarios, and developing options for addressing these needs through advanced technologies and novel system concepts. Studies within the group can cover a broad range of technical areas, including advanced sensor systems, new platforms, communications, navigation solutions, and data exploitation approaches. The analyses performed by the group can lead to experimental test campaigns to collect data to verify modeling results and have also generated opportunities for hardware and software prototyping at Lincoln Laboratory. The analysis topics and questions are typically posed by senior leaders in the Air Force and the work for the group is briefed out widely to help inform critical decisions and impact future acquisitions.

Job Description

The Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Systems and Architectures Group is seeking a summer intern to work on a project related to the modeling and analysis of ISR tactical systems. Specific areas of study include sensor systems, communication systems, navigation systems, or aircraft studies. The summer project will include the development of mathematical models of system performance based on physical principles and engineering, and the implementation of the models in the MATLAB programming language. The work will build upon existing physics-based simulations, data analysis, and/or algorithm assessments within the group. The summer intern will create and demonstrate one or more new modeling capabilities, and will use the models to perform analysis to answer a mission-relevant question. With the Group’s areas of study, summer projects can be adapted to match candidates’ unique interests or skills. The summer intern will work closely with a mentor from the ISR Systems and Architecture Group Technical staff.

The successful intern will be an undergraduate (sophomore year or higher) or graduate student (master’s degree or PhD candidate) with a major in physics, mathematics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, aeronautics/astronautics, computer science, or software engineering. Experience with MATLAB or a similar programming language is required.

Summer Research Program Overview

The Summer Research Program offers students the chance to apply their academic knowledge to real-world national security challenges while working alongside leading scientists and engineers. As an SRP intern, you’ll engage in hands-on research, receive dedicated mentorship, and take part in professional development opportunities including workshops, tech talks, and networking events—all while building connections within a vibrant community of peers.

+ Internships are typically 10–12 weeks, with flexible start and end dates, typically May through early August.

+ Housing support is available for eligible non-local interns, including access to discounted university housing in Boston and a one-time taxable relocation payment.

+ Complimentary daily shuttle transportation is provided from Boston-based housing to and from the Lab.

Compensation

Hourly pay rates below are effective January 2025 – December 2025 and will be reviewed again for Summer 2026.

+ Freshman (BS expected May/June 2029): $24.50/hour

+ Sophomore (BS expected May/June 2028): $26.00/hour

+ Junior (BS expected May/June 2027): $28.00/hour

+ Senior (5-year BS program, completed 4 years by May/June 2026): $31.00/hour

+ Bachelor’s degree completed in 2026: $34.50/hour

+ BS + 1 (BS completed May/June 2025, 1st year of MS in 2025–26): $36.00/hour

+ BS + 2 (BS completed May/June 2024, 2nd year of MS in 2025–26, degree not yet conferred): $37.50/hour

+ MS (Master’s degree expected May/June 2026): $38.00/hour

+ MS + 1 (MS completed May/June 2025, 1st year of PhD in 2025–26): $40.50/hour

+ MS + 2 (MS completed May/June 2024, 2nd year of PhD in 2025–26): $42.00/hour

+ MS + 3 (MS completed May/June 2023, 3rd year of PhD in 2025–26): $43.00/hour

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

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